Hello again! This is David, publisher of The Fitler Focus.
Today, we’re finishing our countdown of this year’s most impactful stories. (If you missed part 1, you can read that here.)
Thank you, reader, for being a critical part of this project. We’re looking forward to bringing you more great stories in 2024.
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#5: A Toast to 30 Years of Bonner’s Irish Pub
Bonner’s, our neighborhood Irish pub, celebrated its milestone 30th year in November. Our reporter takes you inside the beloved bar, revealing its history and its unique cast of regulars.
#4: Exclusive Photos: Ambrosia Plans Expansion Into Adjoining Townhome
We’ve all seen restaurant expansions before, though perhaps not like this. Mega-popular Ambrosia restaurant is expanding into the townhome directly next to it, and we’ve got exclusive renderings of what the space will look like.
#3: Café Lutecia at (almost) 35: Mom, Pop and Daughter Shop
We brought you inside this beloved neighborhood French cafe, introducing you to the family who runs it. Come, have an omelette, and hear the tale of this charming Fitler Square small business.
#2: Meet the Family Behind Fitler Square’s Iconic “Birdhouse” Home
Ever since I moved into the neighborhood several years ago, I’ve wondered how there came to be so many birdhouses on this otherwise-typical row home. Discover the history behind this Fitler favorite in one of our first articles from this past year.
#1: Neighborhood Opposition Halts Return of Jezabel's Cafe to Fitler Square
This story hit a nerve with our readers. Jezabel Careaga, who operated Jezabel’s Cafe in Fitler Square until 2019, was planning to return to the neighborhood with her signature Argentine offerings. But a coalition of residents blocked the zoning variance she would have needed to open her cafe at the proposed site, 2101 Lombard.
Thank you for helping make 2023 a year to remember. We’ll be back in 2024 with more great stories that matter to our neighborhood. Happy New Year!